Proposed changes to Operating Bylaw by the Board of Governors
The current bylaws of Centre Street Church (CSC) were approved by a special resolution of the Members at a Meeting of Members held on November 18, 2013. It has now been over twelve years since that approval.
During this time, the Board of Governors has undertaken a comprehensive review of the bylaws and, in collaboration with legal counsel, the Board is proposing several updates for consideration and approval by the membership.
These proposed changes are intended to ensure the bylaws continue to serve CSC effectively, clearly, and in compliance with current legal requirements. Updates like these help ensure that the document remains practical for current needs while also maintaining compliance with applicable legal requirements and best governance practices.
The proposed bylaw revisions were developed to achieve the following objectives:
a. Improve clarity and readability
Simplify the language of the bylaws so that members can easily understand them—event without familiarity with legal terminology—while still maintaining all necessary legal protections, preserving the church’s reputation and goodwill, and ensuring compliance with applicable laws.
b. Enable electronic participation
Update the bylaws to explicitly allow meetings, voting by members, and proxy participation to occur using current electronic and internet-based technologies. For example, allowing for attendance and voting at the AGM virtually, and a provision allowing unanimous board resolutions in writing without a meeting.
c. Remove outdated or unnecessary provisions
Eliminate articles and sections that are no longer relevant, such as detailed procedures for resolving disputes between members.
d. Align bylaws with policy documents
Remove matters better addressed through church policies rather than bylaws, such as processes related to member discipline, which are more appropriately maintained in documents like the Membership Covenant.
The proposed changes to the bylaws will be voted on at the Annual General Meeting in November 2026. Prior to that, we are inviting our CSC members to review the proposed changes and share any feedback for consideration by the board.
Click here to review the proposed changes
After reviewing the proposed changes, please share your feedback by completing the form below. The form will remain open until July 31, 2026.
Lastly, if you’d like to provide feedback in person and/or have a dialogue with a board member about your feedback, we will host an open-house-style gathering where members and congregants can share their thoughts and raise any questions or concerns.
When: Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Where: Central Campus, Café Lounge (SE corner)
Time: 6:30pm—9:30pm
Note: A second open-house gathering may take place in August. Further details will be communicated at a later date.